Day 1 –Arrival
Arrive in Colombo and transfer to hotel which is located in the capital city of Colombo. Overnight stay at Cinnamon Grand Colombo and transfer the next day to the Cultural Triangle.
Day 2 – Cultural Triangle
The ‘triangle’ comes to being by connecting Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa and finally by connecting Kandy as the southern tip that completes the shape, with Sigiriya and nesting in the centre of this triangle. The ancient ruins, temples, stupas & statues, frescoes and architecture seen within the Cultural Triangle are a testament to the strong influence that Buddhism has had on this country and furthermore the palaces, gardens and complex irrigation systems that are still in use in the Island’s dry zones are proof that this island was home to a civilisation that possessed deep knowledge and intelligence in the areas of science, engineering ,town planning etc, that was far superior to other countries and people in that age. The ‘Cultural Triangle’ is home to 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Considered by many as the 8th wonder of the world, this fortress in the sky was built by King Kashyapa in 470 AD. Rising 200M’s out the jungle this rock fortress is also known as the ‘Lion Rock’. If one decides to take on the challenge and climb this rock to the top of the huge stone lion paws, the view of the surrounding forests and hills is truly breath taking. Cisterns that have been carved out of the rock still retain water and can be seen at the upper palace which is on flat top of the rock whilst moats, extensive gardens and a rampart can be seen at the base of the rock. One the highlights of the Sigiriya rock is the mirror wall with its world renowned frescoes and this can be seen at the mid-level terrace of the rock.
Day 3 - Further exploration of the Cultural Triangle
After breakfast visit the Dambulla cave temples and enjoy optional Minneriya Safari. Overnight stay at ‘The Other Corner’
Cave Temple in Dambulla
Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the Dambulla cave temple is the largest cave temple of Sri Lanka and it has been granted the prestigious status of being a UNESCO world heritage site. Housing the largest number of Buddha statues in one location, the rock ceiling of this cave temple is a colourful frescoes of paintings that bring to life buddhist beliefs and mythology. Spread across 5 caves the major attractions which consist of paintings and statues also include 2 statues of Hindu god’s Ganesh and Vishnu.
Day 4 - Sigiriya – Pinnawella – Kandy
Head to Kandy. En route visit the elephant orphanage and spice gardens. Overnight stay in Kandy at Amaara Sky hotel
Pinnawella Elephant Orphanage
Founded 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, this orphanage and captive breeding ground for wild Asian elephants is known as the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. This orphanage was originally founded in order to lend care and protection to the many unweaned wild elephants found roaming in the Sri Lankan forest areas. There are set feeding and bathing times at the orphanage and visitors are allowed to come and witness these magnificent creatures and their playful young enjoy themselves during these times.
Day 5 – Kandy – Hikkaduwa
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Proceed to Hikkaduwa. En route visit turtle hatchery. Over night stay in Hikkaduwa at Chaaya Tranz.
Kandy – Temple of the tooth relic
Situated in Kandy which is the capital of the Central Province of Sri Lanka the ‘Dalada Maligawa’ as it’s known by locals, is home to the most revered and venerated object of worship within the Buddhist community, which is the Sacred Tooth Relic. The temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is believed to be the foremost place of worship in the Buddhist community around the world as this sacred tooth is believed to be the only surviving relic of the Buddha. The Kandy City has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO and it is believed that this is in part due to the temple.
Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a coastal village, with one of most famous beaches in the country,especially famed for it’s beautiful coral beds. This stretch is inundated with hotels, bars and restaurants. While it attracts various types of travellers, it is most favoured by the younger generation as it is a well known spot for wild night life. But partying is not all that Hikkaduwa offers. When not enjoying the sun and sand, visitors can go surfing or opt to go on a glass bottom boat ride to view the famous underwater coral reefs or even visit the turtle hatcheries in the area and learn about their conservation efforts
Day 6 – Hikkaduwa- Galle – Unawatuna
Mid day excursion to Galle fort and there after check in to Thaproban beach house in Unawatuna.
Galle Fort
This was originally built in 1588 by the Portuguese but was extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century, and it is one of the best preserved examples of 17th century coastal fortifications that can be found in the world. This site has been identified and awarded the prestigious standing of being a UNESCO world heritage site. If one was to explore the fort and there after walk through the small winding streets you would be sure to see and experience the influences from the past through the architecture and museums as well experience the warm hospitality of the people who presently live and work within walled city.
Day 7 & 8 - Unawatuna
Work on your tan and take in the beauty of the clear blue waters that Unawatuna offers.
Unawatuna
Ranked as one of the best in the world , this beach is fast emerging as the most famous beach stretch in the country. Unawatuna is a crescent shaped stretch of sandy white beach which is enveloped by clear blue waters. This beach is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but it is possibly one of the safest in the island, as it is protected by a coral reef. Unawatuna is the ideal location for a relaxed and tranquil holiday, but on the flip side, this little village in the south is well known for hosting some rocking parties that continue till dawn. Small beach front shops also offer visitors the service of renting equipment needed for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Day 9- Unawatuna - Colombo
Travel to Colombo and explore the capital . Overnight stay at Cinnamon Grand
Colombo
Colombo is a hive of activity owing to the fact that it is Sri Lanka’s largest city and also its capital. Home to over a million people this city still is an absolute mixture of the old and new, where one can travel to the historic fort area the main business area and witness old architectural masterpieces from the colonial times as well as sprawling new buildings that have been erected in the recent years. Colombo is the place to visit if one wants to shop in Sri Lanka. Furthermore must see tourist attractions are, the Mount Lavinia beach and the old colonial Mount Lavinia hotel, the museum, historic building and churches.
Day 10 – Colombo – Katunayake
Depart to airport.